
One of the things that annoyed me the most when I first used Windows Vista was the exclusion of the Shut Down button as the default action in the Start menu. Luckily Microsoft listened and they added an option for users to customize the default action available when the Start Menu is opened. The guide below will walk you through the simple process of finding this option so that you may customize it to your liking. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to post them below.
Note: I used Windows 7 RC1 for this tutorial

1. Right-click on the task bar and select Properties from the menu.

2. Click on the Start Menu tab and click on the Power button action: drop-down, select the default button action you wish to set. Click OK when you are done.

3. Your default option should now be visible whenever you open the Start menu.
Note: I chose Log off as my default option
Article posted on 06 1st, 2009
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[...] for the shut down button, Windows 7 now includes an option that allows you to customize it. Follow this guide for instructions on how to change the option.3. WordPad’s Face lift – In this version of [...]
I use Shut down – but how about a way to remove Switch User, Log off, & Lock.
I only need Sleep & Restart (and of course Shutdown itself).
@Seth Mootchnik – I’m sure that is doable…sounds like a hack to me…maybe someone else knows how to do it. If I find something I’ll make sure to post it here. If you happen to find something let me know. Thanks for the suggestion.
I am sure its doable – just have not seen how.
The only other option is a widget/gadget – which I don’t want /use.
so, please keep this in the back of your mind.
Thx